Jordanian nurses knowledge and attitude regarding pain management

Abstract

Optimal pain management requires knowledgeable and trained nurses. The aim of this study is to investigate nurses' knowledge and attitudes regarding pain treatment in Jordan. The sample included 211 nurses from 4 hospitals in Jordan. The Nurses' Knowledge and Attitudes Survey Regarding Pain was used to measure the nurses' pain management knowledge and attitudes. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, unpaired t test, and Spearman correlation test. The results indicate that 51.7% of participants were male and the average age was 27.2 (SD 4.7) years. In addition, most nurses had a bachelor's degree (90.5%) and worked in medical and surgical wards. Furthermore, 52% of nurses reported no previous pain education in the last five years. The average of correct answers was 19.3 out of 40 (SD 4.7) and the rate of correct answers ranged from 10% (item 38) to 72% (item 22). It was found that there were no significant differences between nurses' gender and educational level and the total knowledge and attitude score, except for exposure to previous pain education (t=-3.64; df = 195; p < .001). Nurses with previous pain education got higher mean scores on the questionnaire. Jordanian nurses expressed a lower level of pain knowledge than that reported worldwide. Continuous education and reforming undergraduate curricula to address pain management are recommended. © 2014 American Society for Pain Management Nursing.